The palace of Paramount ruler of Obudu local government area of Cross State has reiterated its commitment to ensure that staff and students of Federal College of Education (FCE) Obudu residing in his domain are safe and don’t suffer molestation of any form by youths of the host community.
The Obudu paramount ruler (HRM), Ukande Abambeshie -Okudare, gave the assurance Sunday in Calabar during a telephone conversation.
Reacting to host community youths’ protest that erupted last week in his domain, the monarch advised staff and students of the institution not to panic but instead to go about their normal businesses without fear of attack by youths.
Recalled that youths of FCE Obudu, the host community, on March 28, 2025, went on the rampage over a parcel of land which they wanted the provost of FCE Obudu, Dr Richard Otubaku, and his team to relinquish to the College of Nursing Obudu, but the provost initially disagreed, a development which helped to fuel the protest.
Other claims by community youths that sparked up last week’s protest were claims of marginalisation of youths in the area of employment in the institution.
Continuing, the traditional ruler assured that peace and security would be provided in his domain so that members of the academic community could learn without fear.
The monarch appealed to the management of FCE to provide employment to youths of the host community who are qualified to be employed in the lower cadre of the institution, adding that by so doing, the institution would have succeeded in taking some restless youths off the streets.
Other areas that need utmost attention include the award of mini-contracts in printing and the supply of stationery to the people in the host community.
Cleaning of the college compound, which used to be handled by community locals, is given back to them amongst others.
“If all these are put in place, I assure you of lasting peace and tranquility within the college and outside society, ” the monarch maintained.
A letter dated April 2, 2025, signed by the paramount ruler, Obudu local government area of Cross River State, HRH Ukandi Felix A. Okudare, assured management of the college of peace and tranquillity within the host community of the academic environment.
